Fresh off a commanding 3-0 T20I series victory against Bangladesh, West Indies’ white-ball captain Shai Hope has expressed his team’s heightened confidence as they prepare to face New Zealand in a five-match T20I series. The first match is scheduled for Wednesday, marking a crucial test for the Windies, who are ranked significantly lower than their fourth-ranked opponents. This recent triumph over Bangladesh was only their second bilateral T20I series win in nine attempts, providing a much-needed morale boost after consecutive losses to Nepal, Pakistan, and Australia. Historically, the West Indies have struggled against New Zealand in T20Is, not having won a series against them since 2012 and losing their last three encounters. However, Hope remains optimistic, emphasizing the importance of building on their recent success. Speaking at a pre-match press conference, Hope highlighted the team’s adaptability and determination to excel in New Zealand’s challenging conditions. He acknowledged the stark contrast between the subcontinental pitches they faced in Bangladesh and the expected conditions in New Zealand, stressing the need for quick adaptation. Hope also underscored the significance of consistency and the ambition to defeat top teams in their home territories as part of their preparation for the upcoming World Cup. The series against New Zealand presents an opportunity for the West Indies to prove their mettle and continue their upward trajectory in international cricket.
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Barbados Netball Association president to demit office next month
Dr. Carmeta Doughlin, the esteemed president of the Barbados Netball Association (BNA), has announced her decision to step down from her leadership role. After three years of dedicated service, Dr. Doughlin revealed her resignation in a heartfelt letter to BNA members, confirming that she will officially vacate her position on December 10 during the Association’s annual general meeting at the Wildey Gymnasium.
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Local Catholic Church Appeals for Donations to Help Jamaica After Hurricane Melissa
In response to the widespread devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa, the Catholic Diocese of St. John’s-Basseterre has issued an urgent call for donations to support relief efforts in Jamaica. The initiative, coordinated through the Antilles Episcopal Conference (AEC), aims to provide financial aid to communities severely impacted by the storm. The AEC Disaster Relief Fund will serve as the primary channel for distributing these resources, emphasizing the need for immediate humanitarian assistance. The Diocese has outlined multiple donation methods, including wire transfers to AEC accounts at Northern Trust (for U.S. donors) and Republic Bank (for Trinidad and Tobago donors), as well as online contributions via the National Catholic Community Foundation. Donors are encouraged to specify “Hurricane Melissa Relief” on their transfers and confirm their contributions by contacting (868) 622-2932 or visiting aecbishops.org. The appeal underscores themes of unity and compassion, urging the Catholic community to extend hope and solidarity to those rebuilding their lives in the storm’s aftermath.
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Vescort Jones reinstated as aviation security officer nearly 11 Years after dismissal
Vescort Jones has officially returned to his position as Aviation Security Officer at the Dominica Air and Seaports Authority (DASPA), nearly eleven years after his dismissal in December 2014. This reinstatement follows an extensive legal and public campaign, culminating in a mutually agreeable settlement between Jones and DASPA, which includes a compensation package satisfactory to Jones. The original dismissal occurred after Jones allowed United Workers Party (UWP) leader Lennox Linton to dispose of crab backs at the Douglas-Charles Airport, an incident that lacked the required permit. This event sparked widespread public support in Jones’s home community of Marigot, where many viewed the dismissal as politically motivated. In January 2015, over 500 residents signed a petition demanding Jones’s reinstatement, which was delivered to DASPA CEO Benoit Bardouille by Linton and members of the Marigot community. The petition described Jones’s termination as a ‘clear act of political victimization’ and called for accountability within DASPA. Despite the public outcry and the submission of the petition, the Labour Tribunal failed to reach a decision on Jones’s wrongful dismissal claim for over a decade. A second tribunal was eventually appointed, and recent negotiations led to a resolution that allowed Jones to return to his post. Jones expressed his gratitude for the outcome, stating, ‘I am very happy to return to the job I have always loved. Aviation security has been my passion and my calling.’ He also thanked his family, attorney, and supporters for standing by him during his pursuit of justice. Jones now looks forward to continuing his service to Dominica, contributing to the safety and efficiency of the nation’s air and sea port operations. His reinstatement marks the end of a long-standing dispute and a return to a profession in which he has been recognized for his dedication and integrity.
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NEMO seeks donations for Hurricane Melissa relief in Jamaica
In response to the extensive devastation wrought by Hurricane Melissa in Jamaica, Saint Lucia’s National Emergency Management Organisation (NEMO) has initiated a comprehensive donation drive to support recovery efforts. The initiative aims to gather essential relief items for distribution to affected communities in Jamaica, where the hurricane has caused widespread displacement and destruction. NEMO is calling upon citizens, organizations, and businesses to contribute to this humanitarian effort, emphasizing solidarity with the Jamaican government and people. Donations will be strictly limited to items specified on the official needs list provided by the Government of Jamaica, with clothing items currently excluded. Financial contributions and the full list of required items can be accessed via the official link: https://supportjamaica.gov.jm/needs. Donations can be delivered to the NEMO Secretariat in Bisee, Castries, between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. NEMO has expressed gratitude for the public’s generosity and cooperation as Saint Lucia extends vital support to its Caribbean neighbors during this challenging time.
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Gonsalves prefers talks rather than votes to pick next ULP leader
Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves of St. Vincent and the Grenadines has expressed his desire for a seamless leadership transition within the Unity Labour Party (ULP), aiming to avoid the internal divisions that marred the party’s only previous leadership change in its 31-year history. Speaking on Boom FM, the 79-year-old leader, who has been promising a transition for 15 years, declined to name a preferred successor, emphasizing the importance of unity within the party.
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China’s 15th Five-Year Plan injects new impetus into deepening cooperation between China and Antigua and Barbuda
In late October 2025, the Fourth Plenary Session of the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China approved the 15th Five-Year Plan, outlining a comprehensive strategy for China’s development from 2026 to 2031. This plan marks a significant step in advancing Chinese modernization, emphasizing high-quality growth, technological self-reliance, and societal progress. Key objectives include achieving breakthroughs in reform, enhancing cultural and ethical standards, improving quality of life, and advancing environmental sustainability through the Beautiful China Initiative.
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Pharmacist warns of chronic illness drug access challenges
A prominent figure in the pharmaceutical sector has raised concerns about the ongoing difficulties in delivering essential medications to patients suffering from chronic non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Marlon Ward Rogers, President of the Barbados Pharmaceutical Society, highlighted the dual challenges of supply chain disruptions and escalating drug prices during a recent interview with Barbados TODAY. NCDs, which include conditions such as diabetes and hypertension, are responsible for 80% of deaths in the region, underscoring the urgency of addressing these issues. Ward Rogers emphasized the critical need for public awareness and patient education to ensure adherence to medication regimens and regular health check-ups. Despite these challenges, he assured that there is currently no shortage of drug supplies, though patients may face higher costs for certain medications. He attributed the intermittent shortages to global supply chain issues exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic and geopolitical tensions, such as the war in Ukraine. Ward Rogers also noted that while brand-name medications might occasionally be unavailable, generic alternatives often remain accessible. As he begins his new term leading the society, his focus will remain on advancing the pharmacy profession and ensuring patients receive optimal care, including through enhanced continuing education initiatives.
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Beckles echoes Antigua PM’s warning on T&T tariff move
Opposition Leader Pennelope Beckles has urged careful consideration of Antigua and Barbuda Prime Minister Gaston Browne’s assertion that Trinidad and Tobago (T&T) may be violating the Treaty of Chaguaramas. Speaking at a press conference in Port-of-Spain, Beckles addressed Browne’s concerns regarding T&T’s recent increase in import duties on selected Caricom products. The Treaty of Chaguaramas, signed in 1973, established the Caribbean Community and Common Market (Caricom), with its 2001 revision forming the Caricom Single Market and Economy (CSME), a cornerstone of regional economic integration. Browne emphasized the need to safeguard these integration efforts, warning that weakened trade relations could fragment the bloc. Beckles echoed the gravity of the issue, drawing parallels to geopolitical tensions involving Venezuela and the United States. She highlighted the challenges of attracting investment amid regional instability, referencing the presence of the USS Ford in the Caribbean. Meanwhile, former Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar criticized Caricom for siding with Venezuela over T&T, labeling the organization as an ‘unreliable partner.’ Beckles also rebuked Persad-Bissessar’s allegations that the People’s National Movement (PNM) is protecting drug traffickers, calling the claims reckless and divisive. She demanded evidence or an apology, warning that such rhetoric undermines national unity and institutional trust.
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Commonwealth Secretary-General Praises Antigua and Barbuda’s Readiness for CHOGM 2026
During her official visit to Antigua and Barbuda, the Commonwealth Secretary-General, the Rt. Hon. Shirley Botchwey, convened with the CHOGM 2026 Task Force to assess progress for the upcoming Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in 2026. The meeting, chaired by His Excellency Dr. Clarence Pilgrim, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Chair of the Task Force, included key stakeholders such as Her Excellency Karen-Mae Hill, High Commissioner of Antigua and Barbuda to the UK, Mrs. Ann-Marie Layne, Director General of Foreign Affairs, and Vernon Solomon, Chief Operating Officer of the American University of Antigua. Discussions centered on critical operational areas like logistics, security, communications, and hospitality, with a focus on leveraging local expertise and fostering partnerships to ensure an efficient, inclusive, and sustainable event. Secretary-General Botchwey praised the Task Force’s dedication, emphasizing that a successful CHOGM 2026 would elevate Antigua and Barbuda’s global standing and highlight the capabilities of small island developing states within the Commonwealth. Dr. Pilgrim expressed gratitude for the Secretary-General’s guidance, reaffirming the Task Force’s commitment to aligning the event with Commonwealth values and generating lasting economic and social benefits for the nation. The meeting concluded with a unified pledge to enhance collaboration between the Government of Antigua and Barbuda and the Commonwealth Secretariat, aiming to deliver a world-class event under the theme “Accelerating Partnerships and Investment for a Prosperous Commonwealth.”